Normal values of total reticulocytes and reticulocyte subsets in children and young adults

This work provides the values for percentage and total reticulocyte count, as well as the values of reticulocyte fluorescence intensity ratios as determined by an automated fluorescent technique in a normal pediatric population. The peripheral reticulocyte subsets, as assessed on the basis of their degree of maturation, allow a more accurate evaluation of bone marrow activity than the percentage or total count do. This would result in a more appropriate management of erythropoietic disorders in children.